Section 144 Enforced: PTI Launches Massive Protests as Rumours Swirl Over Imran Khan’s Safety in Adiala Jail

Islamabad: Pakistan is on the edge today as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepares for sweeping nationwide protests demanding clarity on the condition of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The unrest follows explosive rumours alleging an assassination attempt inside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail—claims that have triggered fear, outrage, and widespread mobilisation across the country.

With tensions mounting, authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed Section 144, banning all public gatherings and sealing every road leading to Adiala Jail. Heavy police deployment, checkpoints, barbed-wire barricades and riot-control units have transformed the area into a fortified zone.

PTI lawmakers are set to stage a large demonstration outside the Islamabad High Court, while Imran Khan’s sisters—joined by supporters and senior party leaders—will hold a high-voltage protest right outside Adiala Jail, demanding proof that Khan is alive and safe.

To push for transparency, PTI has submitted a list of six lawyers requesting immediate access to the PTI chief. The party has simultaneously issued a nationwide call urging supporters from every province to assemble outside the jail until the government confirms Khan’s well-being.

Security agencies across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab have been placed on high alert, anticipating massive crowds and the possibility of clashes. Drone surveillance and mobile jammers have also reportedly been activated around the jail perimeter.

The confrontation escalated further after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was repeatedly barred from meeting Imran Khan. Afridi staged a protest outside the jail gates, declaring that PTI will launch a full-scale nationwide agitation if they continue to be denied access.

Amid international concern from PTI factions abroad, PTI Canada issued a sharp statement on X, criticising the government’s refusal to allow any meetings with Khan. The organisation posted: “It is deeply alarming for the entire nation that Imran Khan’s meetings continue to be blocked by the authorities. As CM Sohail Afridi stated, it has now been 28 days since 4th November and he has not been allowed to meet a single person. This must end immediately, his meetings must be restored without further delay.”